Dear editor:
Once again Parkinson Alberta’s Cochrane and district support group is hosting the annual Flexxaire Parkinson Step ‘n Stride fundraiser. The Flexxaire Parkinson Step 'n Stride is our largest annual fundraising effort to provide the support, services, education and essential funds for research that make every day better for those with Parkinson’s disease and the people who care for them.
As with the past nine years, our Step ‘n Stride event is a 5-km walk that takes place at 1 p.m., Sept. 13 at the Historic Cochrane Ranche (Hwy. 1A) along the creekside pathway to the Bow River. Following the walk, participants and supporters will be treated to some musical entertainment and a complimentary barbecue. In the past, our efforts have raised significant funds that stay here in Alberta to provide hope for today and tomorrow for Albertans affected by this devastating disease.
We in the support group are occasionally asked about Parkinson’s disease; its effects on Albertans and about our provincial organization. Here are a few of the queries:
- What is it? Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative brain disorder for which there is currently no known cause or cure. (The challenge is to develop enhanced treatment and eventually cure).
- Who may get diagnosed with PD? While the majority of those diagnosed are in their middle to senior years from all walks of life, we have incidents reported in teenagers and of course Michael J. Fox of TV/movie fame was diagnosed in his early adult life.
- What is the PD situation in Alberta? There are currently over 10,000 Albertans living with PD; this number is an average (based on an incidence rate of 244.35/100,000) and does not take into consideration that the incidence rate increases as the population ages.
- What about Cochrane and district? Currently, we have some 30-plus families involved in our support group. It is designed to give those afflicted with PD and their caregivers some ongoing support. The group meets the second Thursday of each month.
- If I contribute, where does my money go? Funds raised stay in Alberta to support Parkinson Alberta’s support services, programming and educational activities, as well as fund research.
- Is Parkinson Alberta and the Step ‘n Stride really 100 per cent Albertan? Parkinson Alberta is a stand-alone Alberta-based charitable organization. Across Canada, no other Parkinson organization offers as many support programs and services in as many communities as Parkinson Alberta. One hundred per cent of the money we raise here benefits Albertans affected by PD. Please do not be confused with any other Parkinson designated fundraiser.
- How do I get involved? Very simply, you can get involved by participating in the 2015 Flexxaire Parkinson Step 'n Stride either by walking yourself, or supporting someone who is walking.
I will be pleased to help with any further questions or explanation by telephone 403-932-5654 or telephone the Parkinson Alberta office at 403-243-9901.
Robert (Bob) Head
